24/7 Guided

Signature

Signature

We use premium hotels that are unique expressions of the region. Often they’ve had a previous life as a monastery or a castle, but in every case they offer an exceptionally comfortable stay.

Bistro

These are stylish 4-star properties that offer a casual and comfortable stay. Often without a 24-hour concierge or room service, they tend to be smaller family-run hotels that are perfect for the region.

Level

Occasional

X

Occasional

“I can’t say I really ‘work out,’ but I’m in good shape and am relatively active.”

Recreational

“I enjoy a good walk or ride, and feel comfortable while on the move.”

Enthusiast

“I get moving at least once a week, and don’t mind a little sweat.”

Avid

“I get moving a few times per week and enjoy some exertion.”

Expert

“I want to feel invigorated each day and going hard is how I like to do that.”

Connect with an ancient culture

This journey will take you from the hustle and bustle of Delhi’s vibrant and colourful streets, to the spiritual hub of Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, to the holy waters of the Ganges River for a private Hindu ritual of worship. The rest of your journey just grows in experiences—the omnipresent colour, the irony of an elephant traffic jam, contrasting with the opulence of the palaces and forts we visit and stay in. This is B&R’s India—a spiritual and cultural land and an adventure that will leave you forever changed.

How do you want to travel?

Go PrivateGo Bespoke

India Spiritual Walking Journey

Ready-to-Book private tours are designed to be enjoyed off-the-rack, but there is room for minor adjustments to fit the trip to your needs. If the gap is too great, then we’d be happy to tailor-make you a Bespoke trip from scratch. Simply tell us a few details about your group and select your preferred date. One of our Trip Designers will spring into action, confirming the details or exploring alternatives, over the next 48 hours.

Day by Day

Meet your guide for a short drive to the stately Imperial Hotel where you can relax after a long flight. Located about 45 minutes from the city, it’s the perfect way to unwind and start your trip.

Begin your day with a heritage walk of Old Delhi with a friend of ours, photographer and artist Vikram Kalra, inspired by the vast history and historical kaleidoscope that is Delhi. This afternoon, embark on a tour of New Delhi followed by lunch at Café Lota.

Take a quick, 80-minute flight to Varanasi, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Grab a quick bite to eat before heading off to Sarnath, home of the first sermon of Gautama The Buddha. If time permits, visit the Mother India Temple.

Behold the life and death of the Ganges River this morning, the funeral ceremonies burning 24 hours a day on the holiest water in India. Stroll along the sacred Ghat and make your way down in time for a private aarti, a Hindu religious ritual of worship and an important part of prayer.

Head to Agra today and catch a beautiful sunset at the Taj Mahal. If there early enough, you’ll have time to relax at your ultra luxury hotel, complete with private balcony and stunning views of the Taj Mahal, or swim in the world class pool.

The next morning, we’ll awake in time for sunrise at the one of the eight wonders of the world, a world UNESCO site and an immense mausoleum of white marble dedicated to love, the Taj Mahal.

Depart early for a three-hour drive to Jaipur, with a stop along the way to visit Fatehpur, the “City of Victory.” It offers an exceptional testimony to Mughal civilization near the end of the 16th century.

Visit Jaipur’s City Palace located in the heart of the walled Pink City. Meet with Thakur Durga Singhji of Manadawa for cooking lessons and lunch followed by a hike to the Meena tribal village to see the unique rituals of monkeys and peacocks being fed.

Time to say goodbye! We’ll bring you back to the airport for your flight to Delhi, where we have arranged day rooms to relax in before your flight home. Safe travels!

Hotels

The Imperial, Delhi

Standing in stark contrast to the commotion of the surrounding city, The Imperial offers a serene, stately retreat, a landmark hotel that earns its reputation for its impeccable attention to detail and thoughtful service. Admire the stunning blend of architecture, sample the diverse variety of culinary options, amble the immaculate grounds and indulge in one of the most regal of stays imaginable. View hotel website »

Nadesar Palace, Varanasi

Situated on the banks of the holy river Ganges and located in one of the oldest living cities in the world, Nadesar Palace with its works of art from the Maharaja’s collection adorning the walls of its ten luxurious suites and cool elegant marbled luxury this refurbished palace is an tranquil oasis in the midst of a city that never sleeps. View hotel website »

Amarvilas, Agra

Built in a style inspired by Moorish and Mughal architecture, this resort is a splendid display of terraced lawns, fountains, reflection pools and pavilions. Richly detailed interiors and splendid views of the Taj Mahal complement yoga sessions and holistic spa treatments to reflect the best experiences Agra has to offer. A stay at the Oberoi Amarvilas is truly unforgettable. View hotel website »

The Oberoi Rajvilas, Jaipur

The Oberoi Rajvilas is built in a traditional Rajasthani fort style. Old armory that is majestically mounted on the walls is a source of constant fascination for guests. The master artist, Mr. Ghanshem Nimbark, painted the beautiful gold leaf hand painted wall murals, and colourful Indian miniature paintings throughout the fort. Original paintings by renowned Indian artist, Mr. Parikh Maity are also part of the Modern art collection. View hotel website »

Read about hotels

The best moments were the unscripted ones -- buying masala tea from a roadside stand, bargaining with local villagers for costume jewelry, talking to local school children.

— Lisetta Lavy

Travelers stay in small luxury properties, like the Relais & Châteaux Malabar House in Fort Cochin, and bike 50 to 60 km a day, past coconut and banana trees along the Arabian Sea and through tea and cardamom plantations. Riders go through the Western Ghats and along Vembanad Lake, where they spend the night in a private houseboat and visit local homes to learn about skills like the art of mat weaving.

The New York Times

We never wanted to be the biggest travel company in the world, just the best. — George Butterfield

The Terrain

What’s included? Everything you need. Plus everything you’d want. Plus a few things you never knew you wanted ‘til you got them.

In a word: everything. In ninety words? Signature B&R guides; local experts; unique, unforgettable biking and walking routes; private tours; authentic local cuisine; lessons and demonstrations; local artisanal wines; wine tastings; all victuals and libations; all the endorphins you can handle; new insight; interesting, fun and like-minded travel companions; a feeling of total freedom. In short: an extraordinary, hassle-free journey of discovery.

All hotel accommodation

Meals as indicated with wine (as selected by B&R)

Services of B&R guide(s) and support van

Use of two lightweight, telescoping walking sticks

Detailed maps, route suggestions and water bottle

All special events and private tours

All transportation from rendezvous to drop-off

All baggage transportation

All gratuities for baggage, porters and hotel service

Walking Sticks & Hip Holsters

Included with all walking trips are Leki telescoping walking sticks and custom-made padded hip holsters, which comfortably carry one full half-litre water bottle. And while the walking sticks get “recycled” for use by another B&R traveller, the holsters are yours to keep at trip’s end.

Sometimes your B&R trip simply isn’t long enough! Extend your stay for the best vacation possible. If you wish to spend a few days in region either before or after your official B&R trip, and need assistance making those plans, your B&R Travel Advisor can help. We can create an independent travel experience to fit your needs—and if you desire, arrange for a local guide.